People tend to get a little moochy when awards are dished out. There’s a weird sense it should be shared about a little, but I don’t subscribe.
I make no apologies that three-in-a-row champions Shamrock Rovers dominate the annual ‘Golden Stueys’ selection.
They’re in a different space to everyone else and burst the bubble of those players swanning around thinking they should be in the reckoning when, really, they’re not.
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Here’s my 2022 Premier Division ‘Team of the Year’
Goalkeeper: Alan Mannus (Shamrock Rovers):
A tight call because Brian Maher has been outstanding for Derry but Mannus’ consistency across a huge number of games swings it. After some ropey performances in Europe last year, the 40-year-old bounced back to form and was a rock.
Centre-back: Joe Redmond (St Pat’s)
I’ve been hugely impressed with this guy. Tim Clancy handed him the armband early in the season and it speaks volumes about Redmond and his leadership qualities, at just 22. He stood out in Europe too and was their most consistent player all season.
Centre-back: Lee Grace (Shamrock Rovers)
He hasn’t been in the team for the last couple of games but fatigue is to be expected after the season Rovers had. Their back three was hit when Pico Lopes got injured but Grace stepped up to lead and his consistency shouldn’t be overlooked.
Centre-back: Mark Connolly (Derry City)
The big Monaghan man made a seamless transition into the league when he joined Dundalk on loan from Dundee United before being snapped up on a permanent deal by Derry in the summer. He’s tough as nails and everything you want in a centre-back.
Right wing-back: Ronan Finn (Shamrock Rovers)
Honourable mention to Barry Cotter at St Pat’s as he was the catalyst for their upturn in fortunes, but Finn is my pick. In a young man’s game, it’s hard to stay relevant when you hit a certain age but Rovers are champions because of players like him. A top professional.
Left wing-back: Andy Lyons (Shamrock Rovers)
The Ronaldo of Rovers! Think of all those late goals he popped up with - and from wing back! It’s superstar stuff and the Hoops loss is going to be Blackpool’s gain come January. He embraced the challenge, developed physically and was top class throughout.
Central Midfield: Gary O’Neill (Shamrock Rovers)
O’Neill is a quality footballer and there’s a lovely tempo to his game. He keeps Rovers ticking over and while it’s never flash, the importance of a player like that should never be overlooked. He’s a players’ player, calm and disciplined while dictating the game.
Central Midfield: Cameron Dummigan (Derry City)
Dummigan is to Derry what O’Neill is to Rovers. He performs a similar job and offers defenders great protection while adding tempo to their play when carrying the ball forward. He gives the likes of Patrick McEleney and Michael Duffy a platform to shine.
Attacking midfield: Jack Byrne (Shamrock Rovers)
Perhaps a controversial call as he had his injury problems and missed a lot of the European games, but he played more league games than you think. He never has a bad game. It’s not always outstanding, but it’s a high level and this guy should be playing for Ireland.
Attacking midfield: Shane Farrell (Shelbourne)
I’ll be accused of Shels bias, but it’s not that. This kid has a super attitude and played in so many positions but I feel he’s best in an advanced role. Physically, he’s not imposing but has the heart of a lion and I’d want players like him in any team of mine. He's a star.
Striker: Rory Gaffney (Shamrock Rovers)
What a special season for the Galway man and his value in Rovers’ title win was immense. Big goals in the wins over Shelbourne and Bohemians instantly spring to mind. He’s more than just pace and power, his all round game has improved no end and, at 32, he's a credit.
Manager: Stephen Bradley (Shamrock Rovers)
We’re lucky to have so many outstanding young managers like Kevin Doherty, Damien Duff, Stephen O’Donnell and Tim Clany. But Ruaidhri Higgins and Stephen Bradley stand above them and Bradley has masterminded success in the face of real adversity. Bravo.
